Sanofi/MannKind Inhaled Insulin Product ‘Afrezza’ Becoming Available in the United States

Sanofi and MannKind Corp have just announced that their jointly developed Afrezza (insulin human) Inhalation Powder—the first and only inhaled insulin on the market—is now available for prescription in the United States at retail pharmacies across the country.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Afrezza for the control of high blood pressure in adults with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

The drug-device is a combination product which delivers a dry formulation of human insulin that can be delivered via small, portable inhaler. It is recommended for use as part of a consistent diabetes management plan which involves lifestyle regulation like diet, exercise and medications.

“Many people living with diabetes are not able to control their blood sugar on their current medications and may benefit from using insulin. Now they have another option to administer insulin that is not an injection,” explains Afrezza clinical trial investigator Dr. Janet McGill, MD. The Washington University School of Medicine professor of medicine continues, “This delivery option may help change the dialogue between health care professionals and people living with diabetes about initiating or intensifying insulin therapy.”

Sanofi Senior vice president of the diabetes division, Pierre Chancel, comments, “Afrezza is an important addition to Sanofi’s growing diabetes portfolio of integrated, personalized offerings, and it is one that highlights our dedication to bringing innovative therapies to people with this disease.” He goes on to say, “There is a recognized need for an insulin that doesn’t require an injection, and our organization is committed to making this new treatment option available to patients.”

MannKind Corporation Executive Chairman Alfred Mann adds, “We are extremely proud to see the many years of work that went into developing Afrezza culminate in the day when it is now available to help people manage their diabetes.”